San Antonio Scorpions ready for redemption

The San Antonio Scorpions are one of four teams that will open the 2014 NASL spring season at home April 12.

The Scorpions will kick off the their nine-game spring season at Toyota Field against Minnesota United FC. Alen Marcina, who took over as head coach of the Scorpions midway through the 2013 season, returns without the interim tag.

Two new franchises join the NASL this season — Indianapolis and Ottawa.

Other changes also could boost the Scorpions’ chances of securing a post-season berth.

Beginning in 2014, the top four NASL clubs will advance to the playoffs, competing in what is being called The Championship. The NASL spring season and fall season champions each will host a semifinal game. The host team with the best overall record from the combined seasons will get the No. 1 playoff seed.

The top-seeded semifinal winner will host The Championship final match.

Last year, the Scorpions won six of their 12 spring season matches, with two draws and four losses.

San Antonio finished last in the fall schedule in 2013, with a 3-1-10 record.